Description
This Coppa Focaccia Toast with Zhug is a vibrant Mediterranean-inspired appetizer combining crispy toasted focaccia, creamy Greek yogurt or labneh, and thinly sliced coppa. Topped with a zesty, herbaceous, and mildly spicy zhug sauce made from fresh cilantro, parsley, green chilies, and warm spices, this dish offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. It’s easy to prepare, gluten-free option friendly, and ideal for a flavorful snack or starter.
Ingredients
Scale
Toast and Toppings
- 4 slices focaccia bread
- 4 ounces coppa, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or labneh
- Olive oil, for drizzling
- Flaky salt, to taste
Zhug Sauce
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves
- 2 green chilies (such as serrano or jalapeño), seeded for less heat
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Zhug: Combine cilantro, parsley, green chilies, garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, optional cardamom, salt, olive oil, and lemon juice in a food processor. Pulse until a coarse paste forms, scraping down the sides as necessary to ensure even blending. Set the zhug aside.
- Toast the Focaccia: Warm the focaccia slices in a skillet over medium heat or toast them in a toaster oven. Toast until they are warmed through and lightly crisp around the edges, ensuring a pleasant crunch.
- Assemble the Toasts: Spread a generous layer of plain Greek yogurt or labneh evenly over each toasted focaccia slice, creating a creamy base.
- Add the Coppa: Fold the thin slices of coppa and layer them on top of the yogurt-covered focaccia.
- Top with Zhug and Finish: Spoon the zhug sauce over the coppa to taste. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and finish with a pinch of flaky salt for seasoning. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors and textures.
Notes
- Zhug can be prepared up to 3 days ahead and stored refrigerated in an airtight container for convenience and enhanced flavor.
- Adjust the amount of green chilies in the zhug to control the level of heat according to your preference.
- This toast works wonderfully with burrata cheese instead of Greek yogurt or labneh for a richer, creamier alternative.
